Of Pilotless Aircraft Patents (Class 244/190)
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Publication number: 20110210883Abstract: A surveillance system includes a multi-propeller aircraft having a main propeller and a plurality of wing unit propellers; a housing that houses the main propeller and the wing unit propellers; an ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system; a control system for controlling flight of the multi-propeller aircraft from a remote location; and a telemetry system for providing information from the ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system to the remote location. A method includes: remotely controlling flight of the aircraft using a main propeller and a plurality of wing unit propellers with airflow from the main propeller to the wing unit propellers for lift and propulsion; operating an ultra-wideband (UWB) radar imaging system from the aircraft; and transmitting information from the UWB radar imaging system to a display at a location remote from the aircraft.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2011Publication date: September 1, 2011Inventor: Farrokh Mohamadi
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Publication number: 20110204187Abstract: A homeostatic flying hovercraft preferably utilizes at least two pairs of counter-rotating ducted fans to generate lift like a hovercraft and utilizes a homeostatic hover control system to create a flying craft that is easily controlled. The homeostatic hover control system provides true homeostasis of the craft with a true fly-by-wire flight control and control-by-wire system control.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Inventors: Peter Spirov, Brad Pedersen
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Patent number: 7996118Abstract: An aircraft device includes a rudder, a control unit that applies a deflection instruction to the rudder, a measuring section that measures a recovery characteristic of aircraft movement in response to the rudder deflection instruction, a recorder that records an applied deflection instruction and a corresponding recovery characteristic, and a servo-control that maintains the recovery characteristic. The control unit receives a recovery instruction for a recovery characteristic, which is identifiable for an aerodynamic effect, and generates the rudder deflection instruction induced by the recovery instruction.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 9, 2011Assignee: Airbus FranceInventors: Cédric Seren, François Bommier, Laurent Verdier
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Publication number: 20110130913Abstract: Unmanned aerial vehicle control systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a method of controlling an unmanned aerial vehicle includes transmitting an indication of a take-off or landing location to the unmanned aerial vehicle. The unmanned aerial vehicle is launched. A control mode of the unmanned aerial vehicle is switched from an autonomous mode to a manual mode. The control mode of the unmanned aerial vehicle is switched from the manual mode to another autonomous mode, and the unmanned aerial vehicle is landed at the landing location.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2010Publication date: June 2, 2011Applicant: Geneva AerospaceInventors: David S. Duggan, David A. Felio, Billy B. Pate, Vince R. Longhi, Jerry L. Petersen, Mark J. Bergee
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Patent number: 7931239Abstract: A homeostatic flying hovercraft preferably utilizes at least two pairs of counter-rotating ducted fans to generate lift like a hovercraft and utilizes a homeostatic hover control system to create a flying craft that is easily controlled. The homeostatic hover control system provides true homeostasis of the craft with a true fly-by-wire flight control and control-by-wire system control.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2007Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Inventors: Brad Pedersen, Peter Spirov
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Publication number: 20100256839Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for using a measurement of only one axis of a three-axis magnetometer to perform at least one corrective action on an unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”). An exemplary embodiment comprises (i) receiving from a three-axis magnetometer a measurement representative of an attitude of a UAV, wherein the measurement is of only one axis of the magnetometer, (ii) comparing the measurement to an allowable range of attitudes, (iii) determining that the measurement is not within the allowable range of attitudes, and (iv) performing at least one corrective action on the UAV.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2009Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: David Fitzpatrick
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Patent number: 7806371Abstract: The present invention is a radio-controlled (RC) model aircraft system with laser tag capabilities. A transmitter and receiver are each installed in at least two separate RC aircrafts. The transmitter on one aircraft emits an infrared light beam to the receiver on the other aircraft(s) that changes the infrared signal to a first servo to move an arm, which releases a model aircraft door behind which there are ribbons. The ribbons escape from the aircraft wings to show a hit. An optional second servo operate a smoke screen and eject a pilot to simulate actual combat. The system may also include audio and lighting effects to simulate firing and hit sequences with accompanying theatrical, physical effects including release of smoke and ribbons, and ejection of the pilot that realistically simulates air combat.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Inventor: S. Clayton Troutman
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Publication number: 20100250022Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) addresses remotely piloted UAVs making them easier to operate, provide a more flexible positioning system, also improving on communications latency and interference problems. The UAV sends symbolic messages to an educated public via color.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2006Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventors: Destry Hines, Jason Watts, Donald E. Watts
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Publication number: 20100237199Abstract: Adjustable servomechanism assemblies and associated systems and methods are disclosed herein. An unmanned aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure includes a movable mechanism and a servomechanism assembly operably coupled to the movable mechanism. The system also includes an interface assembly operably coupled to an output shaft of the servo and the movable mechanism. The interface assembly includes an adapter portion carried by the output shaft and an output arm releasably engaged with the adapter portion. The adapter portion includes a first aperture having a non-round surface mated with a non-round surface of the output shaft, and a generally smooth, non-splined, engagement surface. The output arm includes a second aperture sized to receive at least a portion of the outer surface of the adapter portion. The second aperture includes generally smooth inner surface in contact with and rotatable through 360 degrees relative to the engagement surface of the adapter portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2009Publication date: September 23, 2010Inventor: Clifford Jackson
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Patent number: 7793890Abstract: A control system for an aircraft includes a main unit and a separate auxiliary unit in communication with the main unit. The main unit includes an arm support allowing attachment to an arm of an operator. The main unit also includes a control stick supported by the structural element and movable in a plurality of directions. The main unit further includes sensors for sensing movement of the control stick. The auxiliary unit includes a transmitter for sending a transmitter signal encoding the movement of the control stick to the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2007Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Inventor: Patrick L. Scherer
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Publication number: 20100228406Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method and system for flying a ducted-fan air-vehicle, such as an unmanned air-vehicle. The method includes receiving a first input associated with a target point of interest and pointing the gimbaled sensor at the target point of interest. The method further includes receiving a second input corresponding to a desired flight path and selecting a velocity vector flight command to achieve the desired flight path. Selecting the velocity vector flight command includes converting attitude data from the gimbaled sensor into a velocity vector flight command. The method further includes operating the flight of the UAV according to the selected velocity vector flight command and the gimbaled sensor remains fixed on the target point of interest during the flight of the UAV.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 3, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Eric E. Hamke, John Ihlein
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Publication number: 20100224732Abstract: Controlling an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) may be accomplished by using a wireless device (e.g., cell phone) to send a control message to a receiver at the UAV via a wireless telecommunication network (e.g., an existing cellular network configured primarily for mobile telephone communication). In addition, the wireless device may be used to receive communications from a transmitter at the UAV, wherein the wireless device receives the communications from the transmitter via the wireless network. Examples of such communications include surveillance information and UAV monitoring information.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2009Publication date: September 9, 2010Applicant: Insitu, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Olson, Matt Wheeler
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Patent number: 7778744Abstract: A modular avionics system for an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) has a control module that executes flight control and vertical and lateral guidance algorithms to generate control commands. A data link module communicates with a remote control station and receives control commands from the remote control station. A data acquisition module communicates with the control module and the data link module. The data acquisition module is configured to receive and process data from one or more onboard sensors and to actuate a plurality of servo motors in response to control commands. A switching module selectively couples the data acquisition module to the control module or to the data link module responsive to an input from the remote control station to respectively switch between a fully autonomous mode of UAV operation and a manual mode of UAV operation. Power may be provided by a power module.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2006Date of Patent: August 17, 2010Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Manaswini Rath, Yogesh Patel, Nitin Anand Kale, Mallikarjun Kande
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Publication number: 20100084513Abstract: A method of remotely controlling an aerial vehicle within an environment, including providing a control station in communication with the aerial vehicle, providing a map of the environment, receiving target world coordinates for the aerial vehicle within the environment, determining a desired velocity vector to direct the aerial vehicle to the target world coordinates at a speed proportional to the distance between the aerial vehicle and the target world coordinates, and directing the aerial vehicle along the desired velocity vector until the aerial vehicle reaches the target world coordinates.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2009Publication date: April 8, 2010Applicant: AERYON LABS INC.Inventors: Ryan GARIEPY, Dave KROETSCH, Steffen LINDNER, Mike PEASGOOD
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Patent number: 7603207Abstract: A control system for remotely controlling a mobile platform includes a ground-based control station and a surrogate processor. The surrogate processor is remotely located from both the mobile platform and the ground-based control station and includes a communication gateway and software. The communication gateway is in communication with the software, the ground-based control station, and the mobile platform and is capable of transmitting information therebetween. The software generates a control message based on commands received from the ground-based control station to adjust an operational characteristic of the mobile platform. Locating the software and the gateway remotely from the mobile platform also enables a less costly and less complex mobile platform to be constructed.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2005Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Michael R Abraham, Brian C Gray
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Publication number: 20090224094Abstract: A system is disclosed whereby a sensor, communication device, or other payload may be lofted to an operational altitude and maintained over an area of interest for some time by a relatively inexpensive and disposable buoyant aircraft, then returned intact to its point of origin or another desired location by a reusable but also relatively inexpensive non-buoyant aircraft. Automatic unpiloted control is used for all stages of flight, including ascent, loiter, return, and landing Specialized equipment can be provided to simplify launch procedures, reducing the number of personnel required to operate the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2009Publication date: September 10, 2009Inventor: Timothy T. Lachenmeier
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Publication number: 20090222148Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for converting a man-rated fly-by-wire (FBW) aircraft into a remote controlled unmanned airborne vehicle (UAV). The FBW aircraft includes a FBW flight control system (FBW-FCS) configured to control aircraft control surfaces disposed on the aircraft. The system includes a controller coupled to the FBW aircraft. The controller is configured to generate substantially real-time pilot control data from at least one aircraft maneuver command. The real-time pilot control data is generated in accordance with a predetermined control law. The at least one aircraft maneuver command is derived from at least one command telemetry signal received from a remote control system not disposed on the FBW aircraft or from a pre-programmed trajectory. An FBW-FCS interface system is coupled to the controller. The FBW-FCS interface system is configured to convert the substantially real-time pilot control data into substantially real-time simulated FBW-FCS pilot control signals.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2009Publication date: September 3, 2009Applicant: Calspan CorporationInventors: Louis H. Knotts, Eric E. Ohmit
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Patent number: 7543780Abstract: A small unmanned air vehicle system having autonomous electrical energy transmission line docking capability and especially usable in military or other surveillance situations. Transmission line field sensing by the small unmanned air vehicle is used as an addition to global position system and other navigation methods and is especially applied to vehicle docking maneuvers. A plurality of vehicle carried electromagnetic fields-responsive sensors provides transmission line based signals to the vehicle guidance system in both far field and near field environments. Surveillance sensors are included in the vehicle payload. Vehicle battery charging energy procurement from the transmission line docking is included. Related commonly assigned patent documents are identified.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2006Date of Patent: June 9, 2009Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventors: Patrick T. Marshall, Douglas M. Abner, Robert Williams
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Patent number: 7542828Abstract: A small, reusable interceptor unmanned air vehicle (UAV), an avionics control system for the UAV, a design method for the UAV and a method for controlling the UAV, for interdiction of small scale air, water and ground threats. The UAV includes a high performance airframe with integrated weapon and avionics platforms. Design of the UAV first involves the selection of a suitable weapon, then the design of the interceptor airframe to achieve weapon aiming via airframe maneuvering. The UAV utilizes an avionics control system that is vehicle-centric and, as such, provides for a high degree of autonomous control of the UAV. A situational awareness processor has access to a suite of disparate sensors that provide data for intelligently (autonomously) carrying out various mission scenarios. A flight control processor operationally integrated with the situational awareness processor includes a pilot controller and an autopilot controller for flying and maneuvering the UAV.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2005Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Daniel W. Steele, Joseph R. Chovan
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Publication number: 20090108140Abstract: According to one embodiment, code embodied in a computer readable storage medium is configured to generate a checklist for a vehicle by receiving a measured value obtained from at least one sensor configured on the vehicle, setting a parameter value that is associated with the at least one sensor to the measured value, and displaying the checklist on a user interface. The checklist has a number of parameter fields associated with various operating characteristics of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2007Publication date: April 30, 2009Inventors: Brian A. Adams, Timothy D. Smith, Thomas L. Parker, Matthew R. Yeager
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Patent number: 7515070Abstract: A method is disclosed for checking model planes entering into a dive, as well as an anti-dive method and apparatus. The method of checking planes includes installation of a first optical sensor in the upper part of the plane, with installation angle upwardly intersecting with the front of the plane at ? degrees, that checks light intensity and outputs a first checked optical signal; installation of a second optical sensor in the bottom part of the plane, with its installation angle downwardly intersecting with the back of the plane at ? degrees, which checks light intensity and outputs a second checked optical signal. A comparison is made between the first and second checked optical signals, and when the difference in light intensity is smaller than a threshold, a warning signal is sent out indicating that the plane has entered into a dive.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2005Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Inventors: Yu Tian, Wenyan Jiang
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Patent number: 7509212Abstract: Methods, systems, and products are provided for enabling services on a UAV. Embodiments include determining a current position of the UAV, selecting a service module for the UAV in dependence upon the current position of the UAV, uploading the service module to the UAV, and executing the service module on the UAV. Selecting a service module for the UAV in dependence upon the current position of the UAV may include retrieving from a module database a module record in dependence upon the current position of the UAV. Typical embodiments also include selecting a flying pattern algorithm in dependence upon the selected service module and piloting the UAV in accordance with the flying pattern algorithm. Many embodiments also include selecting a navigational algorithm in dependence upon the selected service module and navigating the UAV in accordance with the navigational algorithm.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: March 24, 2009Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: William Kress Bodin, Jesse Redman, Derral Charles Thorson
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Publication number: 20090050747Abstract: The present invention is a radio-controlled (RC) model aircraft system with laser tag capabilities. A transmitter and receiver are each installed in at least two separate RC aircrafts. The transmitter on one aircraft emits an infrared light beam to the receiver on the other aircraft(s) that changes the infrared signal to a first servo to move an arm, which releases a model aircraft door behind which there are ribbons. The ribbons escape from the aircraft wings to show a hit. An optional second servo operate a smoke screen and eject a pilot to simulate actual combat. The system may also include audio and lighting effects to simulate firing and hit sequences with accompanying theatrical, physical effects including release of smoke and ribbons, and ejection of the pilot that realistically simulates air combat.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2007Publication date: February 26, 2009Inventor: S. Clayton Troutman
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Patent number: 7478578Abstract: A commercial airliner (100) controls and is flown in formation with a drone aircraft (200) that includes missile detection and diversion equipment (215) capable of protecting the airliner from a man portable missile (130).Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: January 20, 2009Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Philip L. Kirkpatrick
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Patent number: 7471216Abstract: A handheld controller allows a human operator to control various aspects of a vehicle's operation. The operator's fingers are used to manipulate various devices (e.g., buttons, switches, joysticks, levers, triggers, trackballs and the like) disposed on the handheld controller to control aspects of the vehicle's operation associated with these devices. The handheld controller may provide control signals to the vehicle by a cable, or by a wireless connection. The handheld controller allows the operator to freely move about the vehicle's compartment or to move outside the compartment, while still being able to control the various aspects of vehicle operation. Furthermore, the handheld controller allows the operator to control the various aspects of vehicle operation from a location away from potentially hazardous surfaces within the compartment, which helps to prevent the operator from contacting these surfaces in the event that the vehicle is struck by an object (e.g., enemy artillery, another vehicle, etc.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Ultra Electronics Measurement Systems, Inc.Inventors: Michael Chen, Steven Cai, David Sulkowski
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Publication number: 20080203231Abstract: A control apparatus of a wireless remote-control model and its operating parameter setup system is set up and changed by a personal computer, and various settings of setup information are transmitted to a wireless remote-control helicopter through a communication line, and control parameters are stored in a set value storage module of a memory, such that control parameters for the movement characteristics of a wireless remote-control model can be set up or changed easily to reduce the burden on the side of a signal transmitter.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2008Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventor: Shigetada Taya
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Publication number: 20080190274Abstract: A commercial airliner (100) controls and is flown in formation with a drone aircraft (200) that includes missile detection and diversion equipment (215) capable of protecting the airliner from a man portable missile (130).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 24, 2005Publication date: August 14, 2008Applicant: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Philip L. Kirkpatrick
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Patent number: 7398946Abstract: A rechargeable battery energized unmanned aerial vehicle having surveillance capability and an ability to clandestinely collect propulsion and other energy needs from a conveniently located and possibly enemy owned energy transmission line. Energy collection is by way of a parked vehicle engagement with the transmission line in a current flow dependent, magnetic field determined, rather than shunt, voltage dependent, conductor coupling. Surveillance during both a parked or docked condition and during aerial vehicle movement is contemplated.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventor: Patrick T. Marshall
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Patent number: 7377470Abstract: A wireless-controlled airplane includes a flying unit and an on-ground controller which is connected to the flying unit through a communication section and flies the flying unit. The flying unit includes a body, a drive section installed on the body, a propulsion apparatus which generates a propulsive force when driven by the drive section, a main wing including a plurality of wing elements which are installed so as to be able to move with respect to each other, an opening and closing mechanism which changes the relative positions of the wing elements to change the effective area of the main wing, and a dropping apparatus which selectively holds and drops a load. By changing the effective area of the main wing, the flight speed can be changed, so the capacity and size of the drive section for rotating the propulsion apparatus can be decreased.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2005Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Inventor: Haru Miyake
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Patent number: 7318564Abstract: A surveillance aircraft recharging system based on energy collection by magnetic induction from the current flowing in a randomly selected alternating current transmission line conductor. The charging energy originates in the magnetic field surrounding the current carrying conductor and is obtained by way of a laminated magnetic circuit surrounding the current carrying conductor and disposable in both an open and transmission line receiving state and a closed and energy collecting state upon command. Latching of the magnetic structure into a condition providing physical suspension stability for the host aircraft as well as an efficient magnetic circuit are provided. Latching of the magnetic structure includes a docking aircraft kinetic energy storage sequence assisting in aircraft deceleration and also providing saved energy useful during an undocking sequence.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Air ForceInventor: Patrick T. Marshall
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Patent number: 7274978Abstract: A miniature, unmanned aircraft for acquiring digitized data, transmitting digitized data, or both, having an electrical supply system capable of sustained operation. The aircraft has a fuselage, a wing, a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine, a propeller, control surfaces for controlling flight, each operated by a respective servomechanism, a microprocessor for managing flight control, a GPS receiver, a communications radio frequency transceiver, and data handling apparatus. The data handling apparatus is any one of a data acquisition device for gathering environmental data, a data acquisition device for sensing aircraft altitude or attitude or both, a data relay station, or any combination of these. The data handling apparatus is preferably part of an enclosed module which is readily mounted to and detachable from the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 25, 2007Inventor: Ernest A. Carroll
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Patent number: 7229046Abstract: This invention is a servo mounting system, which allows a servo with a rotating output shaft to directly power an aircraft control surface. A specially designed servo mount securely positions the servo with the central axis of its rotational output shaft on, and axially aligned with, the hinge line of the control surface it drives. The servo shaft and servo body are directly connected to the airframe and control surface, thereby conserving rotational motion while driving control movement. Electronic means are then used to control the neutral point and the limit of travel of the servo. The system eliminates lost motion without generating adverse linear loads within the drive assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Cecil John DuRant
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Patent number: 7228232Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products are provided for navigating a UAV that include piloting the UAV, under control of a navigation computer, in accordance with a navigation algorithm. While piloting the UAV, embodiments include reading from the GPS receiver a sequence of GPS data, anticipating a future position of the UAV, identifying an obstacle in dependence upon the future position, selecting an obstacle avoidance algorithm, and piloting the UAV in accordance with an obstacle avoidance algorithm. Identifying an obstacle in dependence upon the future position may include comprises retrieving obstacle data from a database in dependence the future position. Identifying an obstacle in dependence upon the future position may also include depicting an anticipated flight of the UAV with 3D computer graphics in dependence upon the future position and identifying an obstacle in dependence upon the depiction of the anticipated flight.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: William Kress Bodin, Jesse Redman, Derral Charles Thorson
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Patent number: 7219861Abstract: A method and system are described for controlling the flight pattern of a remote controlled aircraft. The system includes a microcontroller that is linked to an accelerometer for determining the attitude of the aircraft and modifying signals to the aircraft's flight control system in order to prevent a crash. In addition, several preset flight patterns are stored in a memory so that upon activation, the aircraft will enter a preset flight pattern.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2000Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Spirit International, Inc.Inventor: Howard Barr
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Patent number: 7210654Abstract: An unmanned airborne reconnaissance system, the unmanned airborne reconnaissance system including a lightweight, portable, powered aircraft and a foldable launch rail, the aircraft, in a broken down condition and the launch rail in a broken down condition fitable inside a box, the box capable of being carried by one man. The launch system includes an elongated launch rail with the carriage assembly, and a propulsion means for accelerating the carriage assembly from one end of the launch rail to the other. The carriage assembly releasably engages the aircraft so as to propel the aircraft from one end of the launch rail to the other. The propulsion may be by a cartridge that explodes and releases a gas through a cylinder, or by elastic cords. The aircraft is guided through the air either by a programmed onboard computer which controls the control surfaces of the aircraft and/or by remote control. The aircraft typically contains a camera for recording and transmitting images received from the ground below.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2003Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Mission Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Beverly Cox, Hampton Dews, Nicholas Nyroth
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Patent number: 7121506Abstract: A remotely controlled model airplane includes a receiver responsive to signals from a transmitter to control the direction of flight of the model airplane. The receiver, powered by a battery, demodulates the signal transmitted by the transmitter to selectively energize an electrical coil to generate a magnetic field of a first or second polarity. A rudder pivotally attached to the vertical stabilizer includes a magnet responsive to the magnetic fields generated and is urged in one direction or the other resulting in commensurate pivotal movement of the rudder. A hinge interconnecting the rudder and vertical stabilizer urges return to center of the rudder after it has been deflected left or right by the magnet responding to the magnetic field created as a result of a signal transmitted by the transmitter. An electric motor also under control of the transmitter and receiver may be incorporated to rotate a propeller to provide thrust and forward motion of the model airplane.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: October 17, 2006Inventor: Andy J. Clancy
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Patent number: 7073750Abstract: An improved structure and method for powering the flight of a model airplane by positioning the motors and propellers on the back side of the top wings of an airplane using a single or double-deck wing design so that the propellers and motors of the airplane are better protected from damage in the event of a crash. The fuselage of the airplane is formed of a deformable material such as a foam to aid in crash resistance.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2005Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Silverlit Toys Manufactory LTDInventor: Kei Fung Choi
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Patent number: 7039367Abstract: A communications system and method utilizes an unmanned surface vehicle (USV) capable of collecting data about an environment in which the USV resides. At least one micro-aerial vehicle (MAV), equipped for unmanned flight after a launch thereof, is mounted on the USV. Each MAV has onboard radio frequency (RF) communications. Each MAV launched into the air transmits the data collected by the USV using the MAV's RF communications.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventor: Daniel Kucik
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Patent number: 7014141Abstract: An unmanned airborne reconnaissance system, the unmanned airborne reconnaissance system including a lightweight, portable, powered aircraft and a foldable launch rail, the aircraft, in a broken down condition and the launch rail in a broken down condition fitable inside a box, the box capable of being carried by one man. The launch system includes an elongated launch rail with the carriage assembly, and a propulsion means for accelerating the carriage assembly from one end of the launch rail to the other. The carriage assembly releasably engages the aircraft so as to propel the aircraft from one end of the launch rail to the other. The propulsion may be by a cartridge that explodes and releases a gas through a cylinder, or by elastic cords. The aircraft is guided through the air either by a programmed onboard computer which controls the control surfaces of the aircraft and/or by remote control. The aircraft typically contains a camera for recording and transmitting images received from the ground below.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2002Date of Patent: March 21, 2006Assignee: Mission Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Beverly Cox, Hampton Dews, Nicholas Nyroth
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Patent number: 6995688Abstract: Apparatus and method are provided for detecting and responding to aircraft emergencies and, in particular, thwarting attempts to hijack an aircraft including the storage in aircraft computer memory of a pattern of aircraft flight characteristics assumed to be unique to aircraft controlled by hijackers. The invention also periodically detects real-time flight characteristics from the aircraft automatic sensing apparatus and compares the real-time flight characteristics with the stored patterns of assumed aircraft flight characteristics of a hijacked aircraft. The assumed aircraft flight characteristics includes thresholds such as exceeding given airspeeds or altitudes less than a specific altitude. If an assumed stored pattern is matched by the real-time flight characteristics, automatic control is taken of the autopilot, attempts to manually control the aircraft are overridden and the aircraft is caused to automatically begin flying in an emergency holding pattern.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: February 7, 2006Inventor: James S. Reynolds
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Patent number: 6908061Abstract: An airship system according to the invention has an airship (110), a base station (120), and at least three measurement points. The airship (110) emits ultrasonic waves upon receiving an instruction from the base station (120). Measurement point units (S1-S3) receive the ultrasonic waves, and thereby measure distances from the airship (110) to the respective measurement points. An MPU that is incorporated in the base station (120) calculates a position of the airship (110). The base station (120) controls a route of the airship (110) based on the calculated position by sending a flight instruction to the airship (110). In this manner, an airship system can be provided that makes it unnecessary for an operator to pilot the airship and that can reduce the load weight and the power consumption of the airship.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Yutaka Akahori
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Patent number: 6898492Abstract: A flight recorder designed for small aircraft captures various onboard flight data in real-time and stores it in non-volatile memory. Recorded data includes aircraft's instantaneous position, altitude, attitude, engine RPM, G forces, flap position, cockpit voice and others. These data are obtained from various sensors which are integrated into the recorder. At the end of a flight the recorded data is downloaded into a computer using a wireless communications data transceiver also integrated into the recorder. It does not require removal or attaching any equipment to be able to download data. In addition to accident investigation, applications include training, preventive maintenance and asset monitoring.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2001Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Inventors: Hilary Laing de Leon, Roland E. Quiros
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Patent number: 6857601Abstract: An airship system according to the invention has an airship (110), a base station (120), and at least three measurement points. The airship (110) emits ultrasonic waves upon receiving an instruction from the base station (120). Measurement point units (S1-S3) receive the ultrasonic waves, and thereby measure distances from the airship (110) to the respective measurement points. An MPU that is incorporated in the base station (120) calculates a position of the airship (110). The base station (120) controls a route of the airship (110) based on the calculated position by sending a flight instruction to the airship (110). In this manner, an airship system can be provided that makes it unnecessary for an operator to pilot the airship and that can reduce the load weight and the power consumption of the airship.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2002Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Yutaka Akahori
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Patent number: 6847865Abstract: A miniature, unmanned aircraft for acquiring and/or transmitting data, capable of automatically maintaining desired airframe stability while operating by remote directional commands. The aircraft comprises a fuselage and a wing, a piston engine and propeller, a fuel supply, at least one data sensor and/or radio transceiver, a microprocessor disposed to manage flight, a radio transceiver for receiving remotely generated flight direction commands, a GPS receiver, a plurality of control surfaces and associated servomechanisms, for controlling flight stabilization and direction, roll, pitch, yaw, velocity, and altitude sensors. The microprocessor uses roll, pitch, yaw, and altitude data to control attitude and altitude of the aircraft automatically, but controls flight direction solely based on external commands. The aircraft does not exceed fifty-five pounds.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2002Date of Patent: January 25, 2005Inventor: Ernest A. Carroll
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Publication number: 20040232285Abstract: An airship system according to the invention has an airship (110), a base station (120), and at least three measurement points. The airship (110) emits ultrasonic waves upon receiving an instruction from the base station (120). Measurement point units (S1-S3) receive the ultrasonic waves, and thereby measure distances from the airship (110) to the respective measurement points. An MPU that is incorporated in the base station (120) calculates a position of the airship (110). The base station (120) controls a route of the airship (110) based on the calculated position by sending a flight instruction to the airship (110). In this manner, an airship system can be provided that makes it unnecessary for an operator to pilot the airship and that can reduce the load weight and the power consumption of the airship.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2004Publication date: November 25, 2004Inventor: Yutaka Akahori
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Patent number: 6817573Abstract: An aircraft 1 comprising interchangeable wings 5 detachedly connected to a fuselage 3, each wing 5 containing the fuel and flight systems 13,15 for engines 7 mounted to the wings 5, so that the fuselage 3 need contain no flight systems, simply a “bus” 23 for communication and the transfer of data between the wings.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Bae Systems plcInventors: Richard George Harrison, Terry Prendergast, Geoffrey Salkeld, Darren Holdcroft
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Patent number: 6789768Abstract: Differential Global Positioning System receivers (60) are located at the corners of a confined zone and receive signals from Global Positioning System satellites (62). The Differential Global Positioning System receivers (60) aid an aircraft (16) to fly and flight path or combing patten (20) over the confined zone. A vehicle (12) with a trailer (14) may be used to transport the aircraft (16) for use over the confined zone.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2002Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Steadicopter LtdInventor: Gad Kalisch
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Publication number: 20040140404Abstract: A search robot system first divides the entire area of disaster into a mesh cell of an appropriate size, and arranges a search robot for each mesh cell. A search is made for a route of travel from an outermost mesh cell to a casualty and to an adjacent mesh cell. The search robot immediately communicates with a mother robot when a casualty is found. The search robot also communicates with the mother robot when a route to an adjacent mesh cell is found. In the search robot system, a new search robot is arranged to search in an adjacent mesh cell. Accordingly, a rescue activity that is a matter of time can be carried out by a plurality of robots.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2003Publication date: July 22, 2004Inventors: Yoshiji Ohta, Masaki Hamamoto, Keita Hara
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Satellite commanding using remotely controlled modulation of satellite on-board telemetry parameters
Patent number: 6735501Abstract: A satellite command system and method that provides satellite commanding using remotely-controlled modulation of telemetry parameters on-board a satellite. Software is provided on each of the redundant processor units that creates separate DMA command input pathways to the redundant processor units. A command translator is used at a ground station to translate a command that is to be implemented on the satellite into a form ready for modulation. The command information is uplinked to the satellite by remotely manipulating (modulating) a quantity that can be measured by the on-board computer using its telemetry collection functions. The software implemented in processor units recognizes the modulation and processes it to reconstruct the command. The reconstructed command is passed to the processor unit, which then executes the command.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2000Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Space Systems/Loral, IncInventors: Aaron J. Rulison, Richard W. Schiek, Wael Kamel -
Patent number: 6694228Abstract: A control system for a UAV includes control translations which maximize operational employment of the UAV payload. By determining spatial references, and then using the references to transform the control stick commands, the operator treats the UAV as a point source. For control through imagery from onboard mission sensors, the transformations provide for the UAV to move itself and achieve payload orientation.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Sikorsky Aircraft CorporationInventor: Jeffrey P. Rios